If you’ve heard about a $2,400 stimulus check hitting mailboxes in 2025, you’re not alone. Rumors are swirling online, but here’s the reality: there is no new federal $2,400 stimulus being issued this year. However, some people may still be eligible for up to $1,400 through the Recovery Rebate Credit—a program tied to the 2021 COVID-19 relief effort.
If you didn’t get the third stimulus payment back in 2021 or never filed a 2021 tax return, this could be your last chance to claim it. And for married couples who missed out, that adds up to $2,800—so it’s easy to see where the $2,400 rumor came from.
Overview
The confusion around a 2025 stimulus is understandable, but here are the facts:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Stimulus Amount | Up to $1,400 per eligible individual |
| Program Name | Recovery Rebate Credit (2021) |
| Deadline to File | June 15, 2025 |
| Who’s Eligible | People who didn’t get the 2021 stimulus or didn’t file in 2021 |
| How to Claim | File a 2021 federal tax return with the IRS |
| Official Info | Visit irs.gov/recovery-rebate-credit for full details |
Confusion
The idea of a $2,400 stimulus check in 2025 has been circulating online, but it’s mostly a misunderstanding. Here’s what’s really going on:
- The $1,400 per person stimulus from 2021 is still available for those who never claimed it
- Married couples could receive up to $2,800 if neither spouse received the payment
- The $2,400 number is often mentioned because it’s a round figure close to the actual amount some couples might receive
No new stimulus program has been announced for 2025, but the IRS is helping people claim money they were owed years ago—before the June 15 deadline.
Recovery Rebate Credit
The Recovery Rebate Credit is part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. If you didn’t receive your third stimulus check or got less than you were owed, this credit allows you to claim the missing amount by filing a 2021 tax return.
Who Qualifies?
You might be eligible if:
- You didn’t receive the full third stimulus payment
- You didn’t file a 2021 tax return, or you made an error when filing
- You meet income limits:
- Single: Up to $75,000
- Married filing jointly: Up to $150,000
- Head of household: Up to $112,500
The amount you receive phases out as your income increases beyond these levels.
Common Scenarios
- Students who were dependents in 2020 but not in 2021
- Seniors or retirees who didn’t file taxes
- People with low income or no income who weren’t required to file
- Individuals experiencing homelessness or who moved frequently
How to Claim It in 2025
The process is pretty simple, and free for many people:
Step 1
Go to the IRS Recovery Rebate Credit page and use the resources provided to see if you qualify.
Step 2
Even if you don’t normally file taxes, you must submit a 2021 return to claim the credit. You can:
- Use IRS Free File (available for incomes under $73,000)
- Hire a certified tax preparer
- Use reputable tax software like H&R Block, TurboTax, or TaxAct
Be sure to complete the Recovery Rebate Credit section accurately and double-check your personal details.
Step 3
Once the IRS accepts your return, it usually takes 3 to 6 weeks for the payment to arrive—either through direct deposit or a mailed check.
Tip: Create an IRS online account so you can track your return and payment status anytime.
Maria’s Story
Maria is 22 and works part-time at a local market. She didn’t make enough in 2021 to file taxes and missed out on the third stimulus payment. After hearing about the Recovery Rebate Credit in early 2025, she checks her eligibility and files a 2021 return using IRS Free File.
In five weeks, Maria receives a $1,400 check. She uses it to pay off utility bills and cover food costs she’s been struggling with. Her story is one of millions—and it shows how important this overlooked credit can be.
Why This Matters
In today’s economy, every dollar counts. With inflation and high living costs, this retroactive payment can be a game-changer.
Use the money to:
- Catch up on overdue bills
- Build an emergency savings buffer
- Pay for medical or school expenses
- Stock up on essentials
The program is about fairness—making sure everyone gets the relief they were promised during the pandemic.
But time is running out. After June 15, 2025, you can no longer claim the credit.
Watch Out for Scams
Scammers are everywhere when money is involved. Here’s how to stay safe:
- The IRS will never call, text, or email asking for your info
- Only use IRS.gov to file or get help
- Avoid anyone promising faster refunds for a fee
- Don’t click on links in suspicious emails claiming to be from the IRS
If you’re unsure about something, report it to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at tigta.gov.
The bottom line? There’s no new $2,400 stimulus, but there is a real chance to claim $1,400 you may have missed. File your 2021 tax return before June 15, 2025, and make sure you don’t leave money on the table.
FAQs
Is there a new $2,400 stimulus in 2025?
No, but the IRS is offering up to $1,400 through the Recovery Rebate Credit.
How do I get the Recovery Rebate Credit?
File a 2021 federal tax return, even if you don’t normally file.
What’s the deadline to claim it?
You must file your 2021 return by June 15, 2025.
Can retirees or low-income people qualify?
Yes, if they didn’t receive their full 2021 stimulus.
Is this payment from a new stimulus law?
No, it’s part of the 2021 American Rescue Plan retroactive benefits.
